SCRIPTURE: Matthew 20
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
(Read my reflection from 2008)
Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ [Matthew 20:15]
There is definitely a shock value to this story.
It draws out the “that’s not fair” from my mind too.
One of the problems that this employer will face is when he looks for workers the next day, and no one wants to work, in the hope of getting paid for showing up at 5pm.
People will take advantage of his generosity.
Hmm, does this happen with God’s grace too?
The main point of this parable is not to promote a business practice, but to illustrate a spiritual lesson from a practical, relevant story.
The lesson is God’s amazing generosity, which can be enjoyed by not presumed upon.
People who appreciate God’s generosity will be happy, but those who presume upon it will be disappointed.
The son’s of Zebedee (and their mother) were disappointed.
The healed blind men were extremely happy.
When it comes to God’s grace, all people need it but some people will experience their need more than others.
Some people who follow Jesus endure much more than others – like those who are persecuted, tortured, martyred.
While others seem to have an easy walk, comparatively speaking.
If we think about ‘fairness’, we might also respond with “that’s not fair”.
Though keep in mind, someone out there probably thinks that about you too.
Did we deserve the portion of grace we received?
Have we been permitted to drink an easier cup that others?
If we focus on fairness, no one will be happy, we will all be disappointed.
If God gave us what we deserved, we would all be in trouble.
God’s grace is shocking and amazing because He does not treat us fairly…
He treats us generously, all of us.
Instead of focusing on others, and on what you think they do or do not deserve, focus on yourself and recall what you deserve.
is that what you want, that God would treat you as your sins deserve?
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for this reminder. As I consider what I deserve, I realize that I am also like the late-hour workers. And Your generosity to me is shocking, undeserved.
The parable about the workers in the vineyard reminds me of the workers in God’s kingdom today, just as the the mother of Zebedee’s sons. We do so much in our lives of ‘Me first.’ Our focus is on ourselves rather on the work we are asked to do. Serve Him. And in that service we can not, must not compare our works of service because we are doing it all for the Master. There are differences but the main thing remains the main thing – serving the King. Our focus is not on what we have accomplished or what the others may be doing or on our payment or on importance but on the Master and pleasing Him with the works of our hands.
Where’s my focus? Being a servant leader? Comparing the rewards of my labour? On others? On Christ – the Giver of Life forevermore?
Born to serve. Saved by His grace. Given the opportunity to work in His garden. Having open eyes and ears to see Him and hear His voice and follow Him, always.
When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Refrain
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God hath done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
Refrain
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings. Wealth can never buy
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
Refrain
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be disheartened, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.